Easy hike can be done in a few hours, but stick around for the day to view wildlife and enjoy the wildflowers

As in a well-scripted drama, the palm groves remain unseen until hikers round a corner and get their first views after about a mile into their journey. As you continue to hike, listen for the sounds of flowing water as the stream funnels through the large boulders that dot the canyon floor.

Once you reach the comforting shade of the palm groves, spend some time listening and watching the birds, colorful dragonflies or speedy lizards that find food and shelter in the canyon.

In the tranquil embrace of the skirted palms, I found a comfortable spot to sit and enjoy a trail lunch. There was a whisper of wind through the palm fronds and the rush of water over nearby rocks. Birds nested, fed and sang in the fronds high above, and happy frogs croaked with rusty voices in pools filled with wild watercress. It was tranquil in the sanctuary of the palms, but all too soon it was time to leave.

This is not a difficult hike, but it does require some scrambling over rocks.

Don’t try to do it in tennis shoes. Sharp rocks and aggressive cactus spines can spoil a good hike if you don’t have sturdy boots to protect you.

After the hike, it’s only a few miles into Borrego Springs, where you can enjoy dinner at any of the nearby restaurants.

While only a few miles from town, the hike into Borrego Palm Canyon is a journey to another world of unique terrain, wildlife and desert plants. This should be on your list of things to do this spring.

If you have a story of interest, call (760) 518-8050 or email ernie@packtrain.com